Vidarbha statehood brings Sena-BJP discord to fore

The renewed demand for a separate state of Vidarbha in the backof the Centre's decision to carve out Telangana from Andhra Pardesh has brought to fore differences in the Opposition Shiv Sena-BJP alliance.

While state BJP leaders have rallied for fulfillment of the long-pending demand for a separate Vidarbha, Sena leaders have come out vehemently against splitting Maharashtra.

The ties between the saffron partners are already under strain due to what Sena leaders believe is BJP's eagerness to bring Raj Thackeray-led MNS under the Opposition umbrella.

"We are opposed to a separate Vidarbha state.

Vidarbha's development is possible even if the region remains a part of Maharashtra," senior Sena leader Subhash Desai said.

Desai said his party would never support creation of Vidarbha as a separate state.

"Our party supremo Bal Thackeray believes in 'Sanyukta Maharashtra' (United Maharashtra) and we will not allow the state break into two parts," he said.

Do You Like This Story? Awesome! Now share the story Too bad. Tell us what you didn't like in the comments